That Kennedy Half Dollar in your pocket or coin jar might be worth more than 50 cents. Some rare versions of this coin, still floating around in circulation, are fetching up to $5.9 million at auctions. With their iconic design honoring President John F. Kennedy, these coins are a collector’s dream. Here’s how to spot one and what to do if you find a treasure.
What Makes Kennedy Half Dollars Special?
Introduced in 1964, the Kennedy Half Dollar was created to honor the late president. Early versions, especially from 1964, were made with 90% silver, making them valuable just for their metal. But the real money comes from rare errors or specific years, like the 1964-D with unique minting mistakes. Collectors go wild for coins in pristine condition or with low mintage numbers, driving prices sky-high.
Why Are Some Worth Millions?
The value of a Kennedy Half Dollar depends on its year, condition, and any rare features. For example, a 1964-D with a doubled die obverse (where the design appears doubled) sold for $5.9 million due to its rarity. Other coins, like those with low mintage or special mint marks, can fetch thousands. Coins in “mint state” condition—shiny, with no wear—are the most valuable, especially if they have unique errors.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964, especially 1964-D |
| Mint Mark | “D” for Denver, or no mark for Philly |
| Material | 90% silver (1964 only) |
| Condition | No scratches, wear, or tarnish |
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
Check any Kennedy Half Dollars you have. Look at the year 1964 is a hot one. Check for a mint mark (a tiny “D” or no mark) near the bottom of the coin. Use a magnifying glass to spot errors, like doubled letters or images. The coin should look clean and shiny, with sharp details. You can compare it to online guides like NGC Coin Explorer to see if it matches high-value versions still in circulation.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a rare Kennedy Half Dollar, don’t clean it—cleaning can ruin its value. Take clear photos of both sides and research it on sites like eBay or coin collector forums. For a potentially valuable coin, contact a professional appraiser or an auction house like Stack’s Bowers. Store it in a soft cloth or plastic holder to keep it safe while you figure out its worth.
Time to Hunt for Treasure
Kennedy Half Dollars are still out there—in change from stores, old collections, or even your wallet. With some worth millions, a quick check could lead to a huge payday. Take a moment to look at your coins. That 50-cent piece might just be your ticket to a fortune.
FAQs
What makes a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
The 1964 coins are 90% silver, and some have rare errors like a doubled die, making them worth thousands or millions.
Can I still find these coins in circulation?
Yes, Kennedy Half Dollars are rare in daily use but can still show up in change or old collections.
How do I know if my coin is in mint condition?
It should be shiny, with no scratches, wear, or tarnish, and look like it just came from the mint.